Norwegian Protection & Indemnity (P&I) insurer Gard has released its second Crew Claims Report, unveiling troubling trends in seafarer health and safety. Based on analysis of approximately 3,000 crew claims from 2024 and survey responses from more than 6,000 seafarers representing 46 nationalities, the report highlights a 25% increase in crew fatality claims in the three years following the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the three years prior.
“This is a highly concerning development, and one we will monitor closely to see if there are underlying issues that need to be addressed,” said Lene-Camilla Nordlie, Vice President and Head of People Claims at Gard.
The report reveals that illness was the leading cause of crew deaths in 2024, responsible for 83% of all fatality claims. Worryingly, eight of the ten most common illnesses affecting crew members are linked to stress. Most alarming is Gard’s finding that suicide among seafarers now surpasses deaths from fatal accidents.
Christen Guddal, Gard’s Chief Claims Officer, emphasised the critical connection between crew wellbeing and maritime safety: “Getting enough rest, having good social support, being part of a team – all of this impacts your state of mind and situational awareness.”
In response, Gard has launched the Mariners Medico Guide, a free medical app developed in collaboration with healthcare experts. The tool is designed to support seafarers in identifying and responding to both physical and mental health symptoms.
Rolf Thore Roppestad, CEO of Gard, underscored the importance of prioritizing crew welfare: “Seafarers are the backbone of global trade, and their health and safety should be a priority for all of us. By sharing this data and insight, we hope to raise awareness, support better decision-making, and further strengthen the industry’s commitment to those who keep the world trade moving.”
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